The Research Iterative Loop

The Research Iterative Loop refers to a continuous process in which the members of the CAIRN consortium of researchers, parents, clinicians, and policy makers define the research agenda, carry out research studies, disseminate the results, receive feedback on the outcomes of the studies, and then further refine (define) the research agenda. Using the loop means that the research being conducted does not occur in isolation from children and their families, or from the instructors who teach the children on a daily basis, or from other researchers who could benefit from the knowledge and support of others in the field, or from the policy makers who need information to determine what interventions get funding.

And because the parents and researchers and clinicians and teachers and policy makers agree about what research studies should be conducted, how they should be conducted, and how they should be evaluated, there is more efficiency and greater likelihood that good, evidence-based interventions can be developed and made available across the country.

Adapted from: Tugwell, P., Bennett, K.J., Sackett, D.L., and Haynes, R.B. (1985).
The Measurement Iterative Loop: A Framework for the Critical Appraisal
Of Need, Benefits and Costs of Health Interventions.
Journal of Chronic Diseases 38(4): 339-351.